Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A system comprising: a first communication device associated with an automotive vehicle, the first communication device comprising a mobile application associated with a plurality of users, the mobile application configured to receive, from a first user of the first communication device, the first user comprising a first user of the plurality of users, a request to locate any available free parking space unassociated with any parking meter proximate the first communication device or the automotive vehicle, the mobile application further configured to alert the first user, in response to the request, when any available free parking space unassociated with any parking meter is located proximate the first communication device or automotive vehicle, and to transmit to, or display on, the first communication device a location of, or directions to, the available free parking space unassociated with any parking meter, the first communication device further configured to transmit, to a dynamic database, information indicating that the first user has occupied the available free parking space unassociated with any parking meter and it has become an unavailable free parking space unassociated with any parking meter, the first communication device further configured to transmit to the dynamic database information indicating that the first user is about to vacate, or has vacated, the unavailable free parking space unassociated with any parking meter, the system configured to transmit, based on a priority, to a second communication device associated with a second user of the plurality of users information indicating that the unavailable free parking space unassociated with any parking meter is about to become or has become an available free parking space unassociated with any parking meter, wherein the priority is based on factors comprising (1) proximity of the second user to the available free parking space, (2) length of time the second member has been searching for any available free parking space unassociated with any parking meter, and (3) length of time the second member intends to remain parked in the available free parking space, and to transmit information comprising the location of, or directions to, the available free parking space unassociated with any parking meter to the second communication device associated with the second user.
This system addresses the challenge of locating and managing free parking spaces in urban areas, particularly those not associated with parking meters. The system includes a mobile application installed on a communication device, such as a smartphone, connected to an automotive vehicle. The application allows a user to request the location of nearby free parking spaces. Upon detecting an available space, the system alerts the user and provides directions or location details. Once the user occupies the space, the system updates a dynamic database to mark it as unavailable. When the user prepares to leave or has left, the system updates the database again, marking the space as available. The system then prioritizes notifications to other users based on proximity to the space, the duration they have been searching, and their intended parking duration. This ensures efficient parking space utilization and reduces the time spent searching for parking. The dynamic database continuously tracks availability, enabling real-time updates and notifications to users. The system optimizes parking efficiency by dynamically allocating spaces based on user needs and priorities.
2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the mobile application is associated with a mobile device associated with the automotive vehicle or the first communication device of the first user.
A system for enhancing communication between users and automotive vehicles involves a mobile application that interfaces with a mobile device linked to the vehicle or a first communication device of a first user. The system enables secure and efficient data exchange, such as vehicle diagnostics, remote control functions, or user-specific notifications, between the mobile application and the vehicle or the user's device. The mobile application processes and transmits data to the vehicle or the first communication device, facilitating tasks like vehicle monitoring, maintenance alerts, or user-specific interactions. The system ensures seamless integration between the mobile device, the vehicle, and the first communication device, improving user convenience and vehicle management. The mobile application may also support authentication protocols to verify user access and secure data transmission. This system addresses the need for reliable, user-friendly communication between automotive vehicles and associated devices, enhancing functionality and user experience.
3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the mobile device is selected from a group consisting of a factory-installed device installed in the automotive vehicle, an after-market device installed in the automotive vehicle, a smart phone, and a heads-up display.
This invention relates to a system for enhancing automotive vehicle functionality through integration with a mobile device. The system addresses the problem of limited connectivity and functionality in vehicles, particularly for tasks such as diagnostics, navigation, and infotainment. The system includes a mobile device that interfaces with the vehicle's onboard systems to provide expanded capabilities. The mobile device can be a factory-installed device, an after-market device, a smartphone, or a heads-up display. The system enables the mobile device to communicate with the vehicle's electronic control unit (ECU) to access diagnostic data, control vehicle functions, or display information to the driver. This integration allows for real-time monitoring, remote diagnostics, and improved user interaction with the vehicle's systems. The mobile device may also serve as a gateway for external connectivity, enabling cloud-based services or third-party applications to interact with the vehicle. The system ensures seamless communication between the mobile device and the vehicle's systems, enhancing safety, convenience, and performance.
4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first communication device is further configured to determine, based on instructions received from the dynamic database, the location of the available free parking space unassociated with any parking meter.
The invention relates to a parking management system that dynamically identifies and communicates available free parking spaces to users. The system addresses the problem of drivers wasting time searching for parking, particularly in urban areas where parking meters are not always present or functional. The system includes a network of communication devices that monitor parking spaces, a dynamic database that stores real-time parking availability data, and user devices that receive parking information. The first communication device, which may be a sensor or a mobile device, detects the presence or absence of vehicles in parking spaces. It then updates the dynamic database with this information. The system further determines the location of available free parking spaces that are not associated with any parking meter, ensuring users can find unmetered parking spots efficiently. The dynamic database continuously updates parking availability, allowing the system to provide accurate and up-to-date information to users. This helps reduce traffic congestion and fuel consumption by minimizing the time spent searching for parking. The system may also include additional communication devices that relay parking data between the dynamic database and user devices, ensuring seamless information flow. The overall goal is to optimize parking space utilization and improve the parking experience for drivers.
5. The system of claim 1 , wherein a user of the mobile application is required to transmit, via the mobile application or communication device, information that a free parking space unassociated with any parking meter occupied by the user is about to be vacated or has been vacated by the user.
This invention relates to a mobile application-based parking management system that facilitates the reporting of available parking spaces. The system addresses the problem of inefficient parking space utilization by enabling users to notify others when a free parking space, not associated with a parking meter, is about to be vacated or has been vacated. The core system includes a mobile application installed on a user's communication device, which communicates with a central server to process and disseminate parking availability data. The system also includes a database for storing parking space information and user accounts. The mobile application allows users to report when they are leaving a parking space, triggering an update in the system to mark that space as available. This real-time reporting helps other users find open parking spots more efficiently, reducing the time spent searching for parking. The system may also include features for verifying the accuracy of user-reported data to ensure reliability. By leveraging user-reported information, the system improves parking space turnover and reduces congestion in high-demand areas. The invention aims to optimize parking resource allocation through collaborative user participation.
6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the system is further configured to identify restricted available free parking spaces unassociated with any parking meter, and to transmit information that a restricted available free parking space unassociated with any parking meter is available only to users of the mobile application who have a user status qualifying them to park in such restricted available free parking spaces unassociated with any parking meter.
A parking management system monitors and manages parking spaces, including restricted free parking spaces that are not associated with any parking meter. The system identifies these restricted spaces and determines their availability. It then transmits information about these spaces exclusively to users of a mobile application who meet specific user status criteria, such as membership, permissions, or other qualifications. This ensures that only eligible users can access these restricted parking areas. The system may also track usage, enforce access rules, and provide real-time updates to users. The technology addresses the challenge of efficiently managing parking resources while ensuring fair and controlled access to restricted spaces, particularly in urban areas where parking is limited. By leveraging mobile applications and user status verification, the system optimizes parking allocation and reduces unauthorized use of restricted spaces.
7. The system of claim 6 wherein the user status is selected from the group consisting of users who are: members of the mobile application, handicapped, hospital patients, expectant mothers, emergency vehicle operators, medical personnel, or law enforcement personnel.
This invention relates to a system for managing user access to a mobile application based on specific user statuses. The system identifies and categorizes users into distinct groups to provide tailored access or functionality within the application. The user statuses include members of the mobile application, handicapped individuals, hospital patients, expectant mothers, emergency vehicle operators, medical personnel, and law enforcement personnel. The system determines a user's status through authentication or profile data and adjusts the application's features, permissions, or services accordingly. For example, emergency vehicle operators or medical personnel may receive priority access to certain functions, while handicapped users or hospital patients may be granted specialized assistance features. The system ensures that the application adapts dynamically to the user's needs, enhancing usability and safety. The invention improves user experience by recognizing and accommodating diverse user requirements, particularly in critical or specialized scenarios.
8. The system of claim 7 , wherein the system is further configured to identify whether a user of an automotive vehicle parked in a restricted free parking space unassociated with any parking meter has a user status to permit that user to occupy that space, and if not, to communicate to a database a parking violation by such user.
This invention relates to automated parking enforcement systems for detecting and reporting parking violations in restricted free parking spaces, such as those unassociated with parking meters. The system monitors parked vehicles in designated areas to determine whether users have valid authorization to occupy the space. If a vehicle is detected in a restricted area without proper user status, the system automatically records and communicates a parking violation to a central database. The system may use sensors, cameras, or other detection methods to identify parked vehicles and verify user credentials, such as digital permits or registered vehicle information. The invention improves parking enforcement efficiency by reducing the need for manual inspections and ensuring timely violation reporting. The system may integrate with existing traffic management databases to streamline enforcement actions, such as issuing fines or alerts to violators. This technology addresses the challenge of enforcing parking regulations in areas without traditional metering systems, helping municipalities and private operators maintain compliance and optimize space utilization.
9. A non-transitory computer readable storage medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform operations comprising: receiving, via a mobile application associated with a plurality of users, a notification that a first user of a first vehicle is about to vacate, or has vacated, a first free parking space unassociated with any parking meter, wherein the first user comprises a first user of the plurality of users; receiving a request via the mobile application from a second user of a second vehicle to locate a user-specific free parking space unassociated with any parking meter, wherein the second user comprises a second user of the plurality of users; determining a location of the second vehicle or second user; accessing a database comprising free parking spaces unassociated with any parking meter within a geographic region; identifying, from the database of free parking spaces unassociated with any parking meter, a subset of free parking spaces unassociated with any parking meter within the geographic region, the subset comprising user-specific free parking spaces unassociated with any parking meter for the second user; determining if the first free parking space unassociated with any parking meter qualifies as the user-specific free parking space unassociated with any parking meter for the second user; and if it qualifies, initiating a transmission, intended for the second user or the second vehicle, of a location of the first free parking space unassociated with any parking meter, wherein the transmission intended for the second user or the second vehicle is initiated based on a priority, wherein the priority is based on factors comprising (1) proximity of the second user to the user-specific free parking space unassociated with any parking meter, (2) length of time the second user has been searching for the user-specific free parking space unassociated with any parking meter, and (3) length of time the second user intends to remain parked in the user-specific free parking space unassociated with any parking meter.
The invention relates to a system for dynamically sharing information about free parking spaces that are not associated with parking meters. The problem addressed is the difficulty drivers face in locating available parking in urban or high-demand areas, particularly for spaces that are not regulated by meters or paid systems. The solution involves a mobile application that facilitates real-time communication between users about free parking spaces. When a first user vacates or is about to vacate a free parking space, the system receives a notification through the mobile application. Simultaneously, a second user searching for a parking space submits a request via the same application. The system determines the second user's location and accesses a database of free parking spaces within a geographic region. It then identifies a subset of these spaces that are suitable for the second user based on their specific needs. The system checks if the first user's vacated space qualifies as a suitable option for the second user. If it does, the system transmits the location of the space to the second user, prioritizing the transmission based on factors such as the user's proximity to the space, the duration they have been searching, and how long they intend to park. This approach optimizes parking space utilization and reduces search time for drivers.
10. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 9 , wherein the subset of user-specific free parking spaces unassociated with any parking meter is located a maximum predetermined distance from the location of the second vehicle.
This invention relates to a system for identifying and allocating free parking spaces in urban environments, particularly those not associated with parking meters. The problem addressed is the inefficiency of existing parking management systems, which often fail to provide real-time information about available free parking spaces, leading to wasted time and increased traffic congestion. The solution involves a computer-implemented method that processes data from various sources, such as sensors, mobile devices, or other vehicles, to determine the availability of parking spaces. The system filters this data to identify a subset of free parking spaces that are unassociated with any parking meter and located within a predetermined distance from a second vehicle, which may be the user's vehicle. The system then provides this information to the user, allowing them to navigate directly to an available parking spot. The method includes steps for receiving location data, analyzing parking space availability, filtering the data to exclude metered spaces, and determining proximity to the user's vehicle. The system may also prioritize spaces based on additional factors such as cost, duration, or user preferences. The invention aims to optimize parking space utilization and reduce the time spent searching for parking.
11. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 9 , wherein the operations further comprise: if none of the user-specific free parking spaces unassociated with any parking meter is available, initiating at least one of: a communication intended to advise the second user of the second vehicle that no user-specific free parking spaces unassociated with any parking meter are available; a query intended for receipt by the second user of the second vehicle, inquiring if a broadened search for available free parking spaces unassociated with any parking meter is desired; or a new determination of whether any user-specific free parking spaces is available by identifying a revised subset of user-specific free parking spaces, the revised subset of user-specific free parking spaces identified based on altering user-specific parameters.
This invention relates to a parking space management system that helps users find available free parking spaces, particularly those not associated with parking meters. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently locating and allocating parking spaces by dynamically adjusting search parameters when preferred options are unavailable. When no user-specific free parking spaces are found, the system can notify the user, offer a broader search, or recalculate availability by modifying user-specific criteria. The system may also query the user to determine if they wish to expand the search beyond their initial preferences. This approach ensures users are informed of parking availability and can adapt their search based on real-time conditions, improving the efficiency of parking space allocation. The invention leverages computer-readable storage media to execute these operations, ensuring seamless integration with existing parking management infrastructure.
12. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 11 , wherein altering the user-specific parameters comprises at least one of: widening the geographic region of free parking spaces unassociated with any parking meter in the database; increasing the maximum predetermined distance of user-specific free parking spaces unassociated with any parking meter from the location of the user; altering a user-specific free parking space crime/safety or air quality rating; altering a user request for locating free parking spaces unassociated with any parking meter to identifying paid parking spaces; or altering a user request for locating restricted free parking unassociated with any parking meter spaces to identifying unrestricted free parking spaces unassociated with any parking meter.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented system for managing and adjusting user-specific parameters related to parking space identification. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently locating available parking spaces, particularly free parking spaces not associated with parking meters, while accommodating varying user preferences and environmental conditions. The invention involves a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium containing instructions that, when executed, perform operations to modify user-specific parameters for parking space searches. These modifications include expanding the geographic region considered for free parking spaces, increasing the maximum distance from the user's location for such spaces, adjusting crime/safety or air quality ratings associated with free parking spaces, or altering the type of parking spaces identified (e.g., switching from free to paid spaces or from restricted to unrestricted free spaces). The system dynamically adapts to user needs, environmental factors, or other conditions to improve the accuracy and relevance of parking space recommendations. This approach enhances user experience by providing more flexible and context-aware parking solutions.
13. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 9 , wherein the operations further comprise initiating a query intended for the second user inquiring if the second user desires to take the first free parking space unassociated with any parking meter.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented system for managing parking space allocation, particularly for unmetered or free parking spaces. The problem addressed is the inefficiency in locating and utilizing available free parking spaces in urban areas, leading to wasted time and increased traffic congestion. The system involves a networked computer system that monitors and tracks the availability of parking spaces, including those not associated with traditional parking meters. When a first user identifies a free parking space, the system records this information and initiates a query to a second user, asking if they wish to claim the space. The system facilitates communication between users to coordinate parking space usage, reducing the time spent searching for parking and improving overall traffic flow. The invention also includes features for verifying space availability, managing user permissions, and ensuring secure transactions related to parking space allocation. The system may operate in conjunction with mobile devices or other computing platforms to provide real-time updates and notifications to users. By optimizing the use of free parking spaces, the invention aims to enhance urban mobility and reduce environmental impact.
14. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 13 , wherein the operations further comprise: responsive to receiving from the second user an affirmative response indicating that the second user desires to take the first free parking space unassociated with any parking meter, altering in the database an identification of the first free parking space unassociated with any parking meter to indicate that it is an unavailable free parking space unassociated with any parking meter.
This invention relates to a parking space management system that facilitates the allocation of free parking spaces not associated with parking meters. The system addresses the problem of inefficient parking space utilization by providing a dynamic database that tracks the availability of such spaces and enables users to reserve them. When a first user identifies a free parking space unassociated with a meter, the system records this space in a database as available. A second user, seeking a parking spot, can then query the database to locate and request this free space. Upon receiving an affirmative response from the second user confirming their intent to occupy the space, the system updates the database to mark the space as unavailable, ensuring accurate real-time availability tracking. This process prevents double-booking and improves parking efficiency by dynamically managing unmetered parking resources. The system may also include additional features such as user authentication, location-based services, and notifications to enhance usability and reliability. The invention is implemented via a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium containing executable instructions for performing these operations.
15. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 14 , wherein the operations further comprise: receiving information indicative of the second vehicle having vacated the unavailable free parking space unassociated with any parking meter; and updating the database to indicate that the unavailable free parking space unassociated with any parking meter is available.
This invention relates to a system for managing parking space availability, particularly for free parking spaces not associated with parking meters. The problem addressed is the lack of real-time information about whether such parking spaces are occupied or available, leading to inefficiencies in parking management and user experience. The system includes a database that tracks the availability of parking spaces, including free spaces not linked to meters. Sensors or other detection methods monitor these spaces to determine occupancy. When a vehicle occupies a previously available free parking space, the system updates the database to mark it as unavailable. Conversely, when a vehicle leaves, the system detects this and updates the database to reflect that the space is now available. This ensures accurate, up-to-date information for users and administrators. The system may also include a user interface or application that provides real-time availability data to drivers, helping them locate open parking spaces quickly. The database may be updated automatically based on sensor data or manually through user input. The invention improves parking efficiency by reducing the time drivers spend searching for available spaces and minimizing unnecessary traffic congestion around parking areas.
16. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 9 , wherein the database further comprises a crime or safety ranking for the geographic area or for free parking spaces unassociated with au parking meter within the geographic area.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented system for managing parking information, particularly for identifying available parking spaces and providing related data to users. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently locating parking in urban areas by leveraging a database that stores details about parking spaces, including their locations, availability, and associated costs. The database also includes a crime or safety ranking for geographic areas or for free parking spaces not linked to parking meters, allowing users to assess safety risks when selecting parking locations. The system processes user queries to retrieve relevant parking information, such as space availability, pricing, and safety rankings, and presents this data to users via a user interface. The system may also update the database in real-time based on sensor data or user feedback, ensuring accurate and up-to-date information. By integrating safety rankings with parking availability, the system helps users make informed decisions about where to park, balancing convenience with security considerations.
17. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 16 , the operations further comprising providing to the user the crime or safety ranking for the location of at least one available free parking space unassociated with any parking meter.
This invention relates to a system for assessing and displaying crime or safety rankings for parking locations, particularly for free parking spaces not associated with parking meters. The system collects data on crime rates, safety incidents, or other relevant factors in the vicinity of available parking spaces. It processes this data to generate a safety ranking for each location, which is then provided to users to help them make informed decisions about where to park. The system may also include features for displaying real-time availability of parking spaces and integrating with navigation systems to guide users to safer parking options. The safety rankings are dynamically updated based on new data, ensuring users have the most current information. The invention aims to enhance user safety by providing transparent and actionable insights into the relative safety of different parking locations, reducing the risk of theft, vandalism, or other crimes. The system may be implemented as a mobile application or integrated into existing navigation platforms, offering users a seamless experience when searching for parking.
18. A system comprising a mobile application associated with a plurality of users comprising members of the mobile application, the mobile application configured to enable the members to request the mobile application to search for an unoccupied free of charge parking space, the free of charge parking space unassociated with any parking meter, the mobile application further configured to require a first one of the members to transmit a notification that the first one of the members is about to vacate or has vacated an occupied free of charge parking space, the mobile application further configured to transmit, responsive to a request from a second one of the members for a free of charge parking space unassociated with any parking meter, to the second member, that the occupied free of charge parking space is about to be vacated by the first one of the members, the mobile application further configured to determine, among a plurality of users of the mobile application, which one of the plurality of users has top priority to an available free parking space unassociated with any parking meter, and to notify users of the mobile application who approach the available free parking space unassociated with any parking meter who do not have top priority for the available free parking space unassociated with any parking meter that they may not occupy the available free parking space unassociated with any parking meter, the top priority determined based on factors comprising (1) proximity of the second member to the available free parking space unassociated with any parking meter, (2) length of time the second member has been searching for the available free parking space unassociated with any parking meter, and (3) length of time the second member intends to remain parked in the available free parking space unassociated with any parking meter, the mobile application further configured to identify restricted available free parking spaces unassociated with any parking meter, and to transmit information that a restricted available free parking space unassociated with any parking meter is available only to users of the mobile application who have a user status qualifying them to park in such restricted available free parking spaces unassociated with any parking meter.
This system relates to a mobile application that facilitates the sharing of free, unmetered parking spaces among its users. The application allows members to request assistance in finding available parking spaces that are not associated with any parking meters. When a user (the first member) is about to leave or has left an occupied free parking space, they notify the application, which then informs other users (the second members) searching for parking that the space will soon be available. The application determines which user has the highest priority to occupy the available space based on factors such as proximity to the space, the duration the user has been searching, and the intended parking duration. Users without top priority are notified that they may not occupy the space. Additionally, the application identifies restricted parking spaces that are only accessible to users with specific qualifications, such as certain user statuses, and communicates this restriction to eligible users. The system aims to optimize parking space utilization and reduce congestion by prioritizing users based on predefined criteria.
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June 23, 2020
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